If coming from the north, Highway 18 is a great alternate route to get off the interstate for some sightseeing.

Snow Canyon State Park is a geological wonder, with sandstone and lava beds in mixing layers.

Pass through Dixie National Forest, with forests and streams in the Pine Valley Mountains.

Overview

Though not as well known as some of the surrounding scenic drives, Utah State Highway 18 passes through the western portion of Dixie Forest, with old growth trees, stream-cut canyons and the towering Pine Valley Mountains, followed by Snow Canyon in its incredible combination of sandstone and lava beds.

Driving Directions

From I-15, head west on UT-56 in Cedar City until the junction with UT-18. The scenic portion of the trip starts in Enterprise, just 10 miles south. Stay on UT-18 until St. George.

There is an alternate route which bypasses the Snow Canyon State Park. Turning west on Center St. in Veyo, the route cuts through Gunlock State Park before meeting up with W Old Highway 91, which heads east back to St. George.

Time / Distance

The trip should take approximately one hour to complete, covering 37 miles in total. The alternate route on W Old Hwy 91 is 50 miles long, taking about an hour and a half.

Highlights

Dixie National Forest
This forest offers something for everyone. Hiking, fishing, biking, off-roading or just driving the old forest roads are all great ways to explore. Just passing through the old growth trees, streams and rivers that populate the area is enough reward to justify a visit.

Snow Canyon State Park
The canyon has a unique geological history, with the cinder cones that transformed the rivers and canyons into the intricate shapes that now exist. Take some time to look around this often-overlooked gem of southwestern Utah.

Gunlock State Park
Only reached by taking the alternate route on W Old Hwy 91, this state park is off the beaten path, without most amenities, and visited mostly by local bass fisherman. However, the lake is great for a picnic and taking a quick swim in summer.

St. George
The terminus of this scenic drive couldn't be better place to stop, with its collection of spas, restaurants and, of course, the golf courses that put it on the map.